WW1 Conversion Italian Model 1870/87/15 Vetterli-Vitali Rifle

Serial #U8742, 6.5mm Carcano, 33 1/2” barrel with a very good, bright bore that has mild freckling within the grooves.  This is a conversion of an 1873-dated Model 1870 rifle, and has traces of armory -applied blue on protected areas, with the balance turned to plum-brown, and silvering at the muzzle and high edges.  Additionally, there is pitting present where the metal meets the wood on the magazine housing and trigger guard.  The walnut stock was renumbered to match, and has numerous handling marks and blemishes scattered evenly about the thick added oil finish throughout.  The rifle is accompanied by a lightly worn original leather sling, and the cleaning rod is still present.  These rifles served an extremely long time in Italian service, even equipping Blackshirt militia personnel during WW2, over two major revisions.  This example rates fair-good condition overall.  Antique